šŸ’” Mission & Philosophy

Creative Minds is a place where curiosity is nurtured, friendships grow, and learning feels like play. We embrace each child’s unique learning style and support their development through a thoughtful, responsive curriculum.

Rooted in a play-responsive philosophy, we believe that learning happens best when educators are fully present—observing, reflecting, and engaging with children’s play in meaningful ways. With music, art, movement, Spanish, sign language, and even a garden-to-table Farm to School experience woven into each day, we create a joyful and inclusive space for children to learn, explore, and thrive.

Below is a quick overview of our core policies, routines, and program practices.
For full details, please download the Parent Handbook at the bottom of this page.


šŸ“š Curriculum & Learning

Our program follows the Experience Curriculum, featuring monthly discovery themes that inspire curiosity and creativity.

Learning is both child-led and teacher-guided, encouraging independence while providing structure and support. We take a play-responsive approach, meaning our educators actively observe, reflect, and respond to children’s play to deepen learning and build meaningful connections.

Daily enrichment includes Spanish, yoga, American Sign Language (ASL), ZumbiniĀ®, Dance n’ BeatsĀ®, and multicultural experiences, helping children grow in confidence, coordination, communication, and creativity.

We focus on nurturing each child’s emotional, social, and academic growth, helping them build confidence and a lifelong love of learning.

Our on-site Farm to School experience lets children observe garden growth and enjoy fresh foods harvested at Creative Minds.


šŸ•— Daily Schedule Highlights

  • Open: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM

  • Meals Provided: Breakfast (8:00 AM), Lunch (11:00 AM), Snack (2:15 PM), and Late Snack (4:15 PM); menus are posted and shared in the app

  • Nap Time: 12:00 – 2:00 PM

  • Outdoor play daily, weather permitting

  • Kiss & Go drop-off system for smoother transitions


šŸ›”ļø Health & Safety

  • Licensed and regularly inspected to ensure compliance with all state regulations

  • CPR/First Aid certified staff trained in emergency preparedness

  • Daily health checks and a clear illness exclusion policy to protect all children

  • In the event of an emergency, our designated relocation site is Bensley Elementary

  • Medications are not administered at the program (including prescription and over-the-counter)

  • Nutritious meals are served daily and aligned with children’s developmental needs

  • Children are expected to wear socks and closed-toe shoes each day for safety and active play


🧸 Behavior & Inclusion

We use positive guidance strategies such as redirection, modeling, and natural consequences to support healthy social and emotional development.

Children with a variety of learning needs are welcomed into our program, and reasonable accommodations are made whenever possible to ensure inclusion and support.

We believe consistency is key, and we value partnerships with families to help children thrive both at home and in care.


šŸ‘¶ Infant & Toddler Care

We respect and support parent-led feeding preferences and routines. Our staff are trained in the safe handling and storage of breast milk and formula, ensuring infants are cared for with consistency and care.

Babies are fed on demand, unless families provide alternate instructions. No additional food or drinks are introduced without explicit family approval.


šŸ’¬ Communication & Enrollment

We value clear and consistent communication with families, using our app, email, and direct messaging to keep you informed and connected throughout the day.

Enrollment is for full-time care only, with tuition due weekly each Monday. A $100 enrollment fee is required and applied toward your first week of care.

Families receive one vacation week per year at no charge. Please note that part-time and drop-in care are not available.


šŸ“ Additional Policies

To support a smooth, consistent daily routine:

  • Toys, jewelry, or personal items from home should not be brought unless specifically requested

  • No late drop-offs are allowed after 11:00 AM

  • Once a child is picked up for the day, they may not return, in order to maintain consistency and minimize disruptions to the daily routine

  • Pickups during nap time (12–2 PM) are only permitted in emergencies

  • School closures are provided at the beginning of each year and upon enrollment

  • In the event of emergency closures due to weather or other unexpected events, families will be notified as soon as possible via text, the app, and/or local news stations

  • The handbook is updated as needed, and families will always be notified of any changes and provided with the latest version


šŸ“„ Download the Full Handbook Below

For detailed policies, procedures, and enrollment information, please download our full CMCC Family Handbook (PDF).